Rongo, Migori County – Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, has paid glowing tribute to the late Hon. Dr. Dalmas Otieno, describing him as a towering statesman whose leadership left a lasting imprint on Kenya’s democracy, Parliament, and government.
Representing President William Ruto at the burial service in Rongo, Migori County, Mudavadi conveyed the Head of State’s condolence message to the family and people of Rongo. He praised Dalmas as an intelligent, articulate, and dedicated leader whose contributions elevated both his constituency and the nation.
“Dalmas was tall and solid. An intelligent individual. I got to Parliament at the age of 28 years and found Dalmas already there. His debates were top-notch. If you go to the Hansard archives, you will see his record. Dalmas was a vocal leader, unlike some who pass through Parliament without ever making a contribution,” Mudavadi remarked.
Mudavadi hailed the late legislator’s eloquent and well-researched parliamentary interventions, which he said gave weight to critical debates and left a lasting record in Kenya’s legislative history.
“Dalmas served very well in Parliament. He was dedicated and left a legacy that we should all embrace. His voice was never absent when matters of national interest were on the floor. That is the kind of leadership that builds institutions,” he added.
Beyond Parliament, Mudavadi highlighted Dalmas’ tenure in Cabinet and his pivotal role as chair of the Inter-Party Parliamentary Group (IPPG) in the 1990s, which delivered key electoral reforms during Kenya’s democratic transition.
“Dalmas’ legacy reminds us that democracy is not just about competition but also about dialogue, fairness, and responsibility. He was at the forefront of reforms that helped shape our democratic journey. That kind of legacy should continue to guide us today,” Mudavadi emphasized.
Turning to present political realities, Mudavadi lauded the broad-based collaboration between President William Ruto and Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, saying their working together was a powerful symbol of unity after years of political rivalry.
“This is a major statement about bringing people together even after intense competition. We must work with them, pull together, and ensure their vision for this country is not destroyed. Their decision to stand together on such occasions must inspire us to build bridges, not walls,” he said.
Mudavadi also underscored the importance of equity and fairness in resource allocation, urging leaders to prioritize inclusivity. He singled out Hon. Samuel Atandi, chair of the Budget Committee, to spearhead this agenda.
“We want leaders to put their spotlight on fairness in the allocation of resources across all parts of the country. Equity should not be negotiable, because it is the foundation of national cohesion,” Mudavadi said.
In conclusion, Mudavadi called on leaders and citizens alike to emulate Dalmas Otieno’s values of public service, fairness, and respect for dialogue.
“Dalmas showed us that democracy requires both voice and responsibility. His dedication to fairness and national service must inspire us to safeguard and strengthen our democratic journey,” he said.
The burial drew a wide array of leaders across the political divide, including Migori Governor Ochillo Ayacko, Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o, Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga, Interior PS Raymond Omollo, MPs, and other leaders. Their presence was seen as both a mark of respect for the former Rongo MP and a powerful symbol of unity at a time when the country is called upon to embrace cohesion and fairness in governance.
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